LANSING, MICHIGAN—A private exploration group’s plan to test a shipwreck in northern Lake Michigan has been approved by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the state archaeologist’s office. Steve Libert, founder of the group, thinks that the ship may be Le Griffon, sailed by French explorer Rene-Robert Sieur de La Salle. The vessel sank on its maiden voyage in September 1679, carrying a crew of six and a cargo of furs. “We look forward to working together in this public-private cooperative relationship to uncover an important part of the United States, France and Canadian history,” said Libert. The research team is also cooperating with the French government.